Bruno Fernandes has already made his feelings clear as Man Utd strike deal

Bruno Fernandes has given his thumbs-up to “great leader” Tom Heaton signing a new Manchester United deal.

The veteran goalkeeper, now 38, was previously out of contract this summer. But the Red Devils have confirmed that he has extended his stay at Old Trafford.

Heaton has signed a new one-year contract with United. That news is surely set to go down well with captain Bruno Fernandes, who shared his praise of the goalkeeper earlier this summer.

He hailed his influence after Heaton was called into the England squad for Euro 2024. He said: “Great leaders are always welcome in any place. Congratulations big man.”

Speaking about his new contract, Heaton said: "I am delighted to continue my stay at my boyhood club. I still feel in great shape and I am ready to offer whatever the squad needs throughout the season ahead.

"In addition to on the pitch, I’m learning so much off it for my next steps, whatever that may be. But, first and foremost, I want to push the squad to build on our successes from last season."

Heaton, a Red Devils’ academy graduate, originally left the club in 2010 and went on to play for Cardiff, Bristol City, Burnley and Aston Villa. He returned to Old Trafford in 2021 to add to the goalkeeping ranks and has since made three appearances in all competitions.

Heaton has spent time with the England squad during this summer’s Euros as a non-playing goalkeeper. Explaining why he has been called up, Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate said: “I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany.

“Experience tells us that a tournament can put a lot of demand on our goalkeeping department, led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean.

“Off the field, as someone we all know well, he will add to the positive environment we are always looking to create. We are grateful to Manchester United for their support in making this happen.”

Heaton will return to Manchester after the Euros as part of a three-man goalkeeping department. Andre Onana has been the Red Devils’ number one since his arrival from Inter Milan last summer.

Turkish star Altay Bayindir was also signed last summer. The 26-year-old made just one appearance across his debut campaign.